Title:Contributing Writer
Location:Brunswick, Georgia
Education:A.O.S. in Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of America
Expertise:Healthy eating, African American cooking- Co-owner of Strong Roots 9- Senior executive chef at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing
Experience
As a self-proclaimed “First-Generation Northerner,” Tia Raiford’s exploration of food began at a young age, as she cooked alongside her mother and grandmother. She was born in Albany, New York, raised in Connecticut, and disconnected from the heart of the 120-acre watermelon farm of her grandparents and ancestors. However, that culture, food and sense of community are reminiscent of the traditions of Wetumpka, Eclectic and Tuskegee, Alabama, and the deep connection to food and farming from Alabama her family carried north during the Great Migration has manifested in her passion and commitment to teaching the health benefits and importance of the connection between food and the human experience throughout her career.
Tia and Matthew married in 2021, relocated to Brunswick, Georgia, and together they started Strong Roots 9 at Gilliard Farms, located on a 50-acre farm in Centennial, Georgia, that has been in Matthew’s family since 1874. Strong Roots 9 is the first wellness omni brand for black and brown people. Tia and Matthew grow, cultivate and curate products, services and experiences that nourish the body, mind and soul.
LinkedIn:Tia Raiford
EatingWell, aDotdash Meredith Brand, has been publishing award-winning journalism about food, nutrition and sustainability since 1990. Our mission is to share flavor-packed recipes from around the world, celebrating fresh ingredients and the farmers, artisans and chefs who bring them to our table. Through science-backed nutrition advice and smart stories about sustainability, we help readers live their best lives. Learn moreabout usand oureditorial process.
